Lupus

Living with Lupus

Our immune systems protect us by making antibodies that can identify and fight off germs or malignant cells that would make us feel unwell. Lupus forms when a person’s antibodies start to attack healthy cells. This is why lupus, like many other conditions, is called an auto-immune disease. There are different types of lupus; the most common form is called Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE affects different parts of the body including the skin, joints, and organs such as the kidneys and the heart. This all can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including painful joints, extreme tiredness, cognitive issues, and physical impairments. Lupus mostly affects women of childbearing age, but men, children, and teens can also develop lupus. There is also a link between race and lupus; people of African, Asian, Hispanic/Latino, and Native American descent seem to have a higher chance of developing lupus.

Taking control of Lupus

In the United States, it is estimated that at least 1.5 million Americans have a form of lupus. Globally, it is believed that 5 million people live with the condition. Treatment is usually in the form of medications that reduce pain and inflammation; these include over the counter NSAIDs along with steroids and immunosuppressive drugs. In addition, self-care tactics are recommended to reduce symptom flares. These behaviors include the wearing of sun protection as sun exposure is a known trigger for flares, along with ensuring proper rest, eating a balanced diet, and striving for a regular fitness program.

Advances in Lupus treatment

There have been some notable developments in new approaches to lupus treatment over the past ten years based on better understanding of disease pathways and how to target problematic receptors and proteins. These treatments help reduce inflammation and other symptoms while also enabling patients to rely less on steroids that may have side effects of sleeplessness and weight gain.

You can get involved

The advancement of medicine relies on the participation of millions of volunteers in clinical trials each year. These trials help researchers understand diseases such as lupus better and lead to more effective treatments. There are many opportunities enrolling today for lupus patients interested in advancing knowledge of the disease along with the potential of trying a new therapy.

RECRUITING TRIALS

References

Yale School of Medicine: New Lupus Treatments Offer a Better Chance for Remission
Mayo Clinic: Lupus - Diagnosis & treatment
Lupus Research: Treatment Options
Lupus Research Alliance: Lupus Treatment Options - Managing Lupus